Comedian And "Tonight Show" Regular David Brenner Dies At Age 78

The comedian first came to prominence in the early 70s and was a regular on The Tonight Show during the Johnny Carson era.

The weekend began with some unfortunate news, as David Brenner, comedian and Tonight Show veteran, died Saturday at the age of 78. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Brenner died without any complications and surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his sons Slade, Wyatt, whom he had with Slater, son Cole, whom he had with an ex, and grandson Wesley.

"Brenner died peacefully at his home in NYC surrounded by his family at his side," his longtime publicist Jeff Abraham said in a statement. Besides his work on numerous TV documentaries -115 in total, which Brenner wrote, directed and produced – he went on to perform a successful standup show during the 70s.

He may be most recognisable for his Tonight Show appearances. A favorite guest during the Johnny Carson era, Brenner holds the record for most appearances on the show – 158, in addition to several times when he hosted the show.

Brenner’s life was so intertwined with television that he even married his wife on air , Elizabeth Slater, during an HBO special, David Brenner: Back with a Vengeance! The marriage only lasted a year after. Brenner also wrote five books, including 2003's I Think There's a Terrorist in My Soup: How to Survive Personal and World Problems With Laughter - Seriously.